ARLINGTON, Va. – On January 15, 2015, the Mine Safety and Health Administration published a final rule (30 CFR §75.1732) requiring underground coal mine operators to equip continuous mining machines, with proximity detection systems. Full face continuous mining machines are not included in the rule’s requirements.
Many mine operators already have installed proximity detection systems in accordance with the regulation. However, MSHA is reminding mine operators that by March 16, 2018, continuous mining machines operating in underground coal mines must be equipped with proximity detection systems that comply with the standard.
If you have any questions about the final rule or the deadline, please contact the District Manager in the district where your mine is located.